Bardsley appears surplus to Cats’ requirements

03 July 2010 10:37
SUNDERLAND will press ahead with their attempts to move Phil Bardsley on after completing the signing of Egyptian international Ahmed Al-Muhammadi in a season-long loan costing £500,000, with a view to a permanent deal.[LNB] Argentinean Marcos Angeleri will join fellow full-back Al-Muhammadi on Wearside in the next 48 hours to finalise a £1.5m move from Estudiantes leaving Bardsley surplus to requirements.[LNB] The duo follow the signings of Paraguayan midfielder Cristian Riveros and Belgian goalkeeper Simon Mignolet.[LNB] We are delighted to get the deal done, said Bruce.[LNB] Ahmed is a player we've been aware of for a long time and we know exactly what he will bring to the squad. His pace and direct style will be an asset to us and give the team an extra dimension on the right-hand side.[LNB] At only 22 he is already an experienced international, which will serve him well as he adjusts to life in the Premier League. I expect it will take him time to settle but Ahmed is a player who can have a big impact.[LNB] Al-Muhammadi has 42 international caps and has joined from Egyptian Premier League Cairo-based club ENPPI.[LNB] Norwich boss Paul Lambert, meanwhile, is ready to admit defeat in his pursuit of Newcastle goalkeeper Fraser Forster. His form was an integral part of the Canaries' League One title success last season and Lambert wants to have him on board again for life in the Championship.[LNB] He said: I can't leave it much longer, that's for sure.'' Newcastle, who return to pre-season training on Monday, confirmed their friendly at Rangers on Saturday, August 7, will now kick-off at 1pm.[LNB] French midfielder Didier Digard started his pre-season training with Middlesbrough yesterday, three days after the rest of his team-mates.[LNB] The Frenchman's loan with Nice ended on June 30 and was not contractually due to return to Teesside until July 1.[LNB] One player still missing from the sessions is young midfielder Josh Walker. He picked up a knee injury during his loan at Rotherham.[LNB] Boro face Athlone Town on Monday, July 19, at 7.45pm at the Athlone Town Stadium and take on Bray Wanderers on Wednesday, July 21, at the Carlisle Grounds.[LNB]

Source: Northern_Echo